Crist's plan would expand "differential tuition," which is a rate higher than the one set by the state to all 11 state universities. Right now, it's only available at five schools: the University of Florida, Florida State University, Florida International University, the University of South Florida and the University of Central Florida.

The money would have to be used for faculty recruitment and retentions, programs to improve graduation rates and need-based financial aid.

Florida Atlantic University President Frank Brogan said at a meeting Wednesday that State Sen. Ken Pruitt, R-Port St. Lucie, plans to introduce a bill in the Legislature. He said all state university presidents support it.

We've written about the state of higher education in Florida before, most recently when talking about the joke of a raise our union was offered this year. Getting the legislature to permit a tuition increase of this scope when they're still paying the lion's share of the tuition for many students is a big deal, which is why having the Governor on board is a big deal. It's especially a big deal since Crist hasn't exactly been friendly to the plight of Florida universities in the past, so his support might give some cover to legislators who would otherwise oppose this bill. Here's hoping.